Hirosaki Castle — Cherry Blossom Paradise

Hirosaki Castle (弘前城) is one of only twelve original castle towers remaining in Japan, built in 1611 by the Tsugaru clan. The castle's five-story tower sits atop stone walls surrounded by a wide moat and 49-hectare park containing 2,600 cherry blossom trees — more than any other castle in Japan. This density of sakura trees makes Hirosaki the nation's premier cherry blossom viewing destination, attracting over 2 million visitors during the two-week bloom period in late April to early May.

The cherry trees are meticulously managed by Hirosaki's gardeners using techniques developed over 300+ years. Pruning, fertilization, and pest control produce exceptionally full blooms with branches extending dramatically over the moat, creating tunnel-like arches of pink flowers. Fallen petals carpet the moat's water surface, creating 'flower rafts' (hanaikada) — a phenomenon unique to Hirosaki due to the moat's stillness and petal density.

The castle itself was temporarily relocated in 2015 to repair stone walls damaged by the 2011 earthquake. It was moved 70 meters using modern engineering, offering a rare opportunity to see the castle from new angles. The stone wall repairs are expected to complete by 2026, when the castle will be returned to its original position.